Obituary of BARBARA ELAINE JOHNSON

BARBARA ELAINE JOHNSON

February 12, 1946 – May 2, 2025

It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Barbara Elaine Johnson, who succumbed to her battle with cancer on Friday May 2, 2025.  She was 79 years old. 

Barbara was predeceased by her parents Claude (aka Pat) and Margaret (nee Bender) and sisters Loretta and Carolyn. She is survived by her brothers Doug (Linda) and Rodney (Judy); sister Christine (Steve); nephews and nieces Tracie, Scott, Doug, Alison and their families.

Barbara was born February 12, 1946 in Manitou, Manitoba where she spent her early years.  In 1956 the family moved to Brandon where Barbara graduated from Neelin High School in 1964.  Barbara then moved to Winnipeg to attend Red River College becoming a certified library technician. She held positions with the River East School Division, the Manitoba Government, CUSO and finally with the Seven Oaks School Division.

Barbara is best known for her love of travel. Beginning with her travels to Europe during the swinging sixties, Barbara never lost her desire to explore the world. It is likely easier to list the countries she did not visit. Through her position with CUSO she was able to work in places such as Columbia and Thailand. After retirement Barbara continued to travel as an international pet sitter with assignments in New Zealand, Costa Rica, Malaysia, Switzerland and the UK.   Through her travels, Barbara made many lasting memories and cherished friendships.       

Barbara held strong convictions rooted in ideology supporting international justice and development. She referred to herself as a “political junkie”, enjoying political commentary and discussions. As a librarian she was an avid reader and enjoyed her book clubs. Barbara loved everything British and was never happier than when she was visiting her friends across the UK, watching Brit Box or cheering on her favorite football teams on the telly. She enjoyed a dram of good Scotch, a pint of Smithwick’s and a tipple of fine tempranillo. Barbara was generous to the core and we all benefitted from her willingness to give and share. She was independent from beginning to end and lived life on her own terms.    

A heartfelt thank you to the staff of St. Boniface Hospital, units 4E and 7AW who made Barbara’s final days easier for everyone. Thank you to everyone who reached out during this very difficult time. Barbara was loved and will be sorely missed.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 20 at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Home, 1442 Main Street.  

If friends so desire, donations in Barbara’s name can be made to Doctors Without Borders (doctorswithoutborders.ca) or to a charity of your choice.